During an upper G.I. Endoscopy, patients will receive a local, liquid anesthetic administered by an anesthesiologist that is gargled or sprayed on the back of the throat. The anesthetic numbs the throat and calms the gag reflex. An intravenous (IV) needle is placed in a vein in the arm if a sedative will be given. Sedatives help patients stay relaxed and comfortable. While patients are sedated, Dr. Jones and his medical staff monitor vital signs.

During the procedure, patients lie on their back or side on an examination table. An endoscope is carefully fed down the esophagus and into the stomach and duodenum. A small camera mounted on the endoscope transmits a video image to a video monitor, allowing close examination of the intestinal lining. Air is pumped through the endoscope to inflate the stomach and duodenum, making the areas easier to see. Special tools that slide through the endoscope allow Dr. Jones to perform biopsies, stop bleeding, and remove abnormal growths. During a biopsy, a small piece of tissue is removed for later examination with a microscope.